Mars Retrograde 2028? Not this year — the next one starts February 14, 2029

Is Mars retrograde in 2028?

No, Mars is not retrograde at any point in 2028. According to the Swiss Ephemeris, Mars moves direct throughout the entire year. This is a break between two retrograde periods: the previous one ended in April 2027, and the next one begins in February 2029. In 2028, Mars’s motion is straightforward, without the slowdowns and reversals that characterize its retrograde phases.

The next period and its shadow

The next Mars retrograde begins on February 14, 2029, at 08:16 UTC, when Mars stations retrograde in Libra. It ends on May 5, 2029, at 19:00 UTC, when Mars stations direct in Virgo — lasting 80 days. However, the full “shadow” period starts earlier: the pre-shadow begins on December 10, 2028, when Mars first passes the degree of its coming direct station. The post-shadow continues until July 9, 2029, when Mars returns to the degree of the retrograde station. The entire loop with the shadow spans 211 days. During the pre-shadow, Mars changes signs: on December 21, 2028, at 08:46 UTC, it moves from Virgo into Libra. While retrograde, on April 7, 2029, at 13:09 UTC, it re-enters Virgo, and in the post-shadow, on June 5, 2029, at 04:49 UTC, it moves back into Libra. The opposition to the Sun — the midpoint of the retrograde — occurs on March 25, 2029, at 07:49 UTC.

What it means and how to prepare

Although the retrograde itself is in 2029, its pre-shadow begins in December 2028. According to Vronsky, during a Mars retrograde phase, activity tends to slow, and pushing forward may not yield results — it can even backfire, like a coiled spring releasing uncontrollably. Problems may accumulate, causing frustration and a loss of interest in planned tasks. This is a time to avoid forcing issues; instead, it’s worth double-checking plans and being patient with delays. Vronsky also notes that retrograde Mars offers a chance to return to unfinished or abandoned projects, approaching them differently. Robert Hand adds that retrograde planets often operate on a more subjective level, turning attention inward before outward action resumes.

To prepare for the pre-shadow starting in December 2028, consider reviewing any ongoing projects or conflicts that involve initiative, competition, or physical effort. It’s a good time to reassess your approach rather than start new aggressive campaigns. Avoid rushing into repairs or purchases of machinery, as Vronsky warns that hidden flaws may emerge later. Stay calm in disagreements — aggression can rebound. Use the period to reflect on past actions and refine your strategy, knowing that the direct motion in 2029 will bring clearer forward momentum.