Calculated from real sky positions
When Is Mercury Retrograde?
The real dates when Mercury appears to move backwards in the sky: a calendar worked out from planetary positions, not general knowledge or guesswork.
Working out the current status…
Mercury retrograde dates 2026–2027
Start and end moments are given as UTC dates; the sign shows where Mercury is when the period starts and ends.
- February 26, 2026 – March 20, 202623 days · starts in Pisces, ends in Pisces
- June 29, 2026 – July 23, 202624 days · starts in Cancer, ends in Cancer
- October 24, 2026 – November 13, 202620 days · starts in Scorpio, ends in Scorpio
- February 9, 2027 – March 3, 202722 days · starts in Pisces, ends in Aquarius
- June 10, 2027 – July 4, 202724 days · starts in Cancer, ends in Gemini
- October 7, 2027 – October 28, 202721 days · starts in Scorpio, ends in Libra
What is Mercury retrograde?
Mercury is the planet closest to the Sun, so it moves fast in our sky. At certain intervals the Earth overtakes it on its orbit, and for a while Mercury appears to move BACKWARDS against the stars. This "apparent retrograde motion" is an optical effect; Mercury keeps orbiting in the same direction all the time. It happens about three to four times a year, each lasting around three weeks, and the exact dates can be calculated astronomically.
How are the dates calculated?
The dates come from following the Earth-centred (geocentric) apparent ecliptic longitude of Mercury day by day. The moment the longitude stops increasing and starts decreasing is the retrograde station; the moment it starts increasing again is the direct station. Both are narrowed down to the hour.
What does astrology say about it?
In the astrological tradition Mercury is linked with communication, travel and technology, so there is a widespread belief that these areas run less smoothly during retrograde. This is not a scientifically proven effect; it is a cultural and astrological reading. Read it for entertainment and self-reflection, and do not base important decisions on it.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Mercury retrograde last?
A Mercury retrograde lasts about three weeks on average (roughly 19 to 24 days). The exact length varies by a few days from one period to the next.
How many times a year is Mercury retrograde?
Mercury turns retrograde about three to four times a year. The signs in which it happens shift from year to year.
What should I watch out for during Mercury retrograde?
In the astrological tradition it is a time to double-check important contracts, travel plans and technology decisions. This is not scientific advice but an entertaining cultural tradition.
How do I know if Mercury is retrograde right now?
The box at the top of this page works it out from the periods in the calendar and your device's clock, and also tells you when the next period starts and ends.
Keep exploring the sky: Full moon and new moon calendar · Find your zodiac sign