A solar eclipse in Libra is coming our way in October, and it may mark a shift in certain areas of your life.

This powerful astrological event marks a significant moment of change, new beginnings and transformation. The energy of the new moon amplifies it, and since this eclipse occurs in Libra – the sign of balance, relationships and harmony – its effects will be strongly felt in these areas.

Here’s everything you need to know, including if it will be visible in the UK and the star signs that will be most affected.

Following the harvest moon and partial lunar eclipse on 17 September, the annular solar eclipse will take place on 2 October 2024. 

In the UK, we’re more likely to see the next notable solar eclipse on 29 March 2025.

This annular solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth when it is at its farthest point from Earth. 

“This eclipse is coined the ‘ring of fire’ eclipse because the moon is farther from the earth, appearing smaller in the sky and doesn’t completely cover the sun,” explains Sade Jackson, a Fire + Alchemy astrology and reiki practitoner. “As a result, a bright ring of the sun’s disk remains visible around the dark silhouette of the moon.”

“New moons are about new beginnings, as are solar eclipses, and this time around it packs a punch,” explains Jackson. Indeed, this new moon solar eclipse in Libra is all about getting clear on how honest we are about our desires and needs, and how vulnerable we can speak our truths in our relationships so that they are better aligned to who we are.

“As it’s also going to be in a tense aspect with Mars in Cancer and closely aligned with Mercury in Libra, some necessary conversations could come to the surface,” Jackson continues. “These conversations may initially feel quite confronting, but in the end, they could be the very collision needed to bring us closer to a more authentic expression of intimacy.”

The star signs most affected by this eclipse are Aries, Libra, Cancer and Capricorn. These signs, known as the ‘cardinals’, will need to rebalance to ensure their ambitious goals and career missions are in sync with their personal relationships and that they haven’t over-invested their energy on the opposite end of the scale.

According to Fire + Alchemy astrologist Erika O’Connor, other key themes of the Libra new moon include:

New beginnings in relationships: Libra is the sign of partnerships, so this new moon provides an excellent opportunity to set intentions around your relationships, whether romantic, professional or social. It’s a time for fresh starts and new approaches around how you connect with others.

Seeking balance and harmony: Libra is ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty, love and harmony. This new moon encourages you to find balance in your life, whether that means balancing work and personal life, inner peace with outer obligations or finding a fair compromise in relationships.

Diplomacy and fairness: Libra energy is diplomatic and values fairness. This new moon is ideal for resolving conflicts, making peace and addressing areas where justice or equality is needed, whether in personal matters or within larger societal contexts.

Focus on aesthetics and creativity: with Venus as Libra’s ruling planet, this new moon is an excellent time to pursue beauty and creativity. You might feel inspired to redecorate, start a creative project or simply enjoy the arts more deeply.

Reflection on social connections: since Libra governs one-on-one relationships, this new moon might prompt you to evaluate the people you surround yourself with. Are your connections balanced or do you give more than you receive?

Images: Getty