Smokeshow Mars hunkers down in the sign of the domestic Crab on September 4. With hot-blooded Mars in homey Cancer until November 3, hibernation vibes blend with stress. Your Mars in Cancer horoscope can help you through cuffing season without turning into a #tradwife.
Home is where the heat is when excitable (and agitator!) Mars zooms into heartfelt Cancer for the next two months.
Reduce any rising tension under your roof by making sure everyone has enough space to do their thing. Declutter areas that may have become catch-alls while you were having fun this summer. Redecorate with simple touches any areas that appear unwelcoming after the piles are excavated.
The red planet’s motivational influence may even inspire you to start a home-based business or begin a fall fitness challenge you could do with family or roommates. (Who took the most steps a day or made the best GF pasta dish? Winner!)
Fall’s back-to-school stress and busy activity schedules can fan flames of conflict. A dip in temperature (in some places) is a reminder that winter isn’t that far off, and what feels cozy can quickly feel like cabin fever when hot-blooded Mars is in sensitive Cancer. Try to get out of the house whenever emotions start to amplify.
Or channel that feisty energy into healthy outlets, like a thrice-weekly yoga practice or a painting class. You may need a break from roommates and relatives, who can try your patience during this Mars cycle. Channel any brewing frustration into a physical or creative outlet.
DISCOVER YOUR ASTROLOGY ADVANTAGE
"Atomic Habits meets The Wisdom of the Enneagram..."
"Atomic Habits meets The Wisdom of the Enneagram..."
DISCOVER YOUR ASTROLOGY ADVANTAGE
"Atomic Habits meets The Wisdom of the Enneagram..."
Why the push-pull of Mars in Cancer, anyway?
There’s a fundamental mismatch between brash, outgoing Mars and nurturing, introverted Cancer. Mars is said to be “in fall” in the sign of Cancer, meaning this is one of the more challenging signs for the red planet to be housed in. Warning: with aggro Mars in this emo water sign and house, you can be moodier than most, with a tendency to tear up at the drop of a dime.
Don’t get us wrong. Mars in Cancer likes it when you hang out at home. But this action-star planet has zero tolerance for slothlike behavior. You may feel more like an HGTV star during this transit, ready to sledgehammer through drywall to create an open-concept kitchen.
So that brings us to a huge caveat: Mars in any sign is rash
There’s a reason people work with contractors on large-scale projects, so maybe put down the sledgehammer, k? Manageable DIY magic is more welcome now.
On the emotional front, Mars in Cancer comes with a trigger alert and a warning label. Sensitivities are heightened during this cycle. Which means that yes, you’ll probably take things that family and friends say very personally. We recommend nursing wounds privately and with neutral third parties before you reach out with a metaphoric crab claw and pinch back.
Mars in Cancer hot takes
Here are some quick ideas for things you can do to manage the energy of Mars in Cancer. Your sign’s horoscope follows for specific advice.
Do a space clearing. Channel nervous energy that Mars drives up into decluttering, decorating and deep cleaning. But don’t be too fast to give away any prized possessions or family heirlooms.
Let your body go with the flow. When cabin fever spikes tension with your housemates, get out in the fresh air for gentle exercise. Athletic Mars loves when you move your body and Cancer is a water sign. While it may not be warm enough for a swim, think “yoga flow” or a bike ride around a lake.
Turn your kitchen table into a workspace. Enterprising Mars could spark the idea for a cottage industry (and maybe even a #cottagecore one). Don’t be surprised if your home becomes a hub for entrepreneurial inspiration!
Listen to the birds and bees. Considering a move or trying to get pregnant? Family matters accelerate under the red planet’s influence, so make sure you’re ready before you start trying. Results could come faster than expected.
Your Mars in Cancer Horoscope
Mars is one of the inner planets, along with Venus and Mercury. Because of its closer proximity to the Sun, it moves through all 12 zodiac signs in 687 days, spending an average of 6-8 weeks in each. We all feel the effects of its transit through the signs.
Below are horoscopes for every zodiac sign for the Mars in Cancer transit, from September 4 to November 3, 2024. You can read for your Sun sign or your rising sign (ascendant). Visit our Cosmic Calculator section if you want to calculate your Rising sign or discover more about your personal astrology.
Aries (March 19-April 19) Mars in Cancer transit horoscope
Chez Ram is the place to be for the next two months as your red-hot ruler, Mars, moves into your fourth house domestic zone September 4 to November 3. On the plus side, this can infuse your home and family life with exciting energy, whether you’re hosting parties or turning an unused alcove into an artist’s nook.
In the market for a move? Put the word out to your inner circle, but make sure you’re actually ready to pack up. An ideal listing could open up fast under this accelerated energy. Watch your temper with relatives and roomies during this Mars cycle. If you’re feeling especially impatient, be proactive and let them know you need some “me” time.
Aries horoscopes, read more!
Taurus (April 19-May 20) Mars in Cancer transit horoscope
Lift your nose from the grindstone, Bull. Energetic Mars sails into Cancer and your third house of hometown happenings September 4 to November 3, proving that your community has more to offer than you thought. And if not? This is your cue to pick up the baton and start organizing that book club, wine tasting or karaoke night with a local venue.
Since the third house also rules communication, this eight-week Mars cycle will turn up the volume on your expression. While it’s wonderful that you’re passionate about certain issues, be careful you don’t steamroll with your strong views.
Taurus horoscopes, read more!
Gemini (May 20-June 20) Mars in Cancer transit horoscope
Life’s been moving at warp speed since go-getter Mars joined expansive Jupiter in your sign this past July 20. With this fast and furious planet in your sign since then, abundance (and a bit of anxiety) has been flowing, keeping you on the go. It’s been a fun ride, but it’s time to shift gears into a more sustainable and grounded pace.
On September 4, the red planet moves on to Cancer and your sensible second house. Until November 3, focus on getting some traction for all your big ideas. A word of warning: Warrior Mars here can pile on work or money pressure. Although you will welcome more interesting projects into your world, take on only what you can truly handle.
Gemini horoscopes, read more!
Cancer (June 20-July 22) Mars in Cancer transit horoscope
H-O-T-T-O-G-O! Nothing’s holding you back as make-it-happen Mars shifts into Cancer, powering you up with rocket fuel from September 4 until November 3. It’s been a year and a half since the warrior planet zipped through your sign, so make the most of it.
Channel this surge of inspiration and energy into an important goal. If you’ve got an entrepreneurial venture brewing or another passion project you’re thinking of launching, you’ve got the cosmic green light to forge ahead. You’ll feel like the Energizer Bunny and will work well independently during this phase. In fact, you might crave more freedom to do your own thing. If the urge to overhaul your life takes over, remember that Mars can be impulsive. Pace yourself so you don’t bite off more than you can chew.
Cancer horoscopes, read more!
Leo (July 22-August 22) Mars in Cancer transit horoscope
Was it real or just an illusion? As motivator Mars moves into your twelfth house of rest and completions September 4 until November 3, you may discover that certain things (and people) are NOT what they seem. Instead of forcing things, pull back and hand the universe the wheel for the next eight weeks.
Don’t think of this as being passive, Leo. Rather, you’re allowing time and space to come in and support with healing. Creativity will also be cathartic, and you might even experience a renaissance during this Mars cycle. Be it through art, music, prose or another form of expression, channel those feelings you’ve been keeping bottled up.
Leo horoscopes, read more!
Virgo (August 22-September 22) Mars in Cancer transit horoscope
Motivator Mars zips into your eleventh house of group activity September 4 until November 3, revving up your social life. You could connect with an inspiring new crowd, opening the door to a lively, fun-filled fall. Collaborating with like minds can also boost your creativity.
With courageous Mars here, try something new: Anything from joining an indoor sports league to volunteering locally might lead you to your new crew. Heads up: Mars likes to stir the pot, so if a specific group is rife with tension, step back. Don’t get entangled in backstabbing antics and small-minded squabbles.
Virgo horoscopes, read more!
Libra (September 23-October 22) Mars in Cancer transit horoscope
You’re on the fast track to success as go-getter Mars blasts into Cancer and your ambitious tenth house until November 3. This eight-week cycle is prime for supersized goals and connecting with the power players in your field.
Heads up: Obsessive Mars can bring out a workaholic streak, so guard against going to extremes. Schedule playtime into your agenda. It won’t take anything away from your mission. In fact, kicking back and rejuvenating will make you even more productive, and regular exercise breaks will keep your energy high.
Libra horoscopes, read more!
Scorpio (October 22-November 21) Mars in Cancer transit horoscope
Break out of your comfort zone, Scorpio. Grand adventures and personal growth are calling your name as ambitious Mars shifts into Cancer and your expansive ninth house from September 4 until November 3. As it turns out, you can feel “at home” in plenty of places—not just the same familiar corners of the planet. The next eight weeks could yield a life-changing travel opportunity or a chance to study with a master teacher you’ve long admired. Cast a wider net and don’t let your fears limit your expansion.
Scorpio horoscopes, read more!
Sagittarius (November 21-December 21) Mars in Cancer transit horoscope
Pairing up is profitable! Energizer Mars moves into Cancer, heating up your eighth house of big money and intimacy September 4 until November 3. Do you have a business plan to shop? A product you love that could put affiliate income in your pocket? Explore these options or sit down with a financial expert to help you tap into new markets and plan ahead.
Mars also entices you to explore uncharted ground in your erotic life. Note: When delving deeper into your desires, unprocessed emotions could come up. This Mars cycle can be a rich time for healing or spiritual work.
Sagittarius horoscopes, read more!
Capricorn (December 21-January 19) Mars in Cancer transit horoscope
Fiery Mars turns up the heat in your seventh house of partnerships September 4 until November 3, which might ignite a fast-moving collaboration or romantic relationship. If you’re already attached or involved in a business partnership, warrior Mars’ tour of Cancer could bring simmering anger to the surface over the next eight weeks. Don’t try to push it down. Lay your cards on the table and clear the air. Once you do, the slate is clear for some exciting new shared ventures. Hello, dynamic duos!
Capricorn horoscopes, read more!
Aquarius (January 19-February 18) Mars in Cancer transit horoscope
Energetic Mars decamps to your sixth house of healthy living September 4 until November 3, inspiring you to get physical this fall. If you’ve already got a devoted fitness routine in place, turn up the volume on your workouts so that they match your motivation levels.
A word of warning: Mars can also exacerbate your anxiety or put you at risk of overworking yourself. Carve out a couple of hours daily to wrangle your current obligations and commitments into a manageable plan. You might need to recruit a few extra hands to make sure you cross the finish line without getting burned out.
Aquarius horoscopes, read more!
Pisces (February 18-March 20) Mars in Cancer transit horoscope
Enough with the mood swings and family soap operas. Make-it-happen Mars exits your homey fourth house, blasting into your fifth house of fame and passion September 4 until November 3. This season is YOUR time to shine, Pisces! Update your social media profiles, revamp (or launch) your own website, organize a meetup to showcase your offerings. Make sure you’re camera-ready as the spotlight might find you.
Warning: Your desire for excitement could find you drumming up unnecessary drama, especially in love. Seek healthier outlets: Glam up and paint the town crimson together, take over the dance floor or try an improv workshop.
Pisces horoscopes, read more!
Where will Mars be in 2024?
Mars is also the last of the personal inner planets—the planets before Jupiter which are closest to the Sun. The red planet hangs out in a zodiac sign for approximately 6-8 weeks, directing the global temperament and fighting style.
Lusty Mars is the forthright companion to seductive Venus and can bring out the “cosmic cave(wo)man” in us all. Our raw desire is on display during certain Mars cycles, while other zodiac signs provoke a more discreet style of pursuit.
Mars transits 2024:
• Mars in Capricorn, January 4-February 13
• Mars in Aquarius, February 13-March 22
• Mars in Pisces, March 22-April 30
• Mars in Aries, April 30-June 9
• Mars in Taurus, June 9-July 20
• Mars in Gemini, July 20-September 4
• Mars in Cancer, September 4-November 3 (you are here!)
• Mars in Leo, November 3-January 6, 2025
Want even more Mars?
Go beyond your Mars in Cancer transit horoscope: Do you know your Mars sign? Is Mars in Cancer a good placement in a birth chart? Calculate your birth chart and read your Mars sign meaning.
What’s my Mars sign?
Read your daily, weekly and monthly horoscopes from The AstroTwins
Feature art by Rosie Dienhart