What Does Pluto Mean in Astrology?

Doing its own thing far in the outer reaches of our galaxy, Pluto is the ruler of the underworld. The planet furthest beyond our reach rules the unseen forces that drive transformation. As the modern ruler of Scorpio, Pluto is the influence that lies beneath that infamous Scorpio intensity. Pluto is the force that helps us achieve the highest levels of spiritual awakening, although this process is never fast, cheap, or easy. Pluto’s presence in the natal chart exposes the areas that require total and complete transformation.

Pluto is an outer planet and takes approximately 14 to 30 years to transit a sign. It governs secrets and undercovers information, so its placement reveals the areas of life that require deep dives into the soul. Plutonian energy can be possessive or manipulative, so the best way to combat Pluto’s darkness is through surrender. We can’t control everything in our lives, but when we look to Pluto, we discover the area we most strongly need to release.

Pluto goes retrograde each year for approximately 185 days. Its retrograde is the time to release yourself from smothering or codependent relationships. Alternatively, if you’re the one leading with fear or power-hungry tendencies, Pluto in retrograde will ensure that you loosen your grip — even by force.

Looking to learn more about Pluto’s placement in your birth chart? Sanctuary astrologers are available to read your chart and break things down for you. Chat with an astrologer now!