Mercury retrograde 2027: the dates, the signs and what to actually do

Mercury appears to move backward three or four times a year, for about three weeks each time. It is an optical effect caused by how Earth and Mercury pass each other, but astrologers have linked it to mix-ups in communication, travel and technology for centuries.

Dates in 2027

These dates are in UTC. In India and New Zealand, a start or end can fall on the next calendar day.

• 9 February to 3 March: Mercury turns back from Kumbh into Makar.
• 10 June to 4 July: Mercury moves back within Mithun.
• 7 October to 28 October: Mercury turns back from Tula into Kanya.

Signs are given in the Vedic (sidereal) zodiac. In Western charts the same periods fall in Pisces and Aquarius, Cancer and Gemini, and Scorpio and Libra.

The Vedic view

Vedic astrology treats retrograde planets a little differently. A retrograde planet is said to gain strength, so Mercury in retrograde is read as slower and more thoughtful, and not simply unlucky. It is often a time to go back over work, not to start new work.

What to do

• Back up your phone and computer before the period starts.
• Read every contract twice, and keep copies of what you sign.
• Confirm travel bookings a day before, and leave extra time.
• Revisit old projects, finish pending work and reconnect with people.
• Delay major tech purchases and big launches if you can.

There is no need to freeze your life. A signed contract can still be a good one. The aim is to slow down and double check.

The app sends a reminder two evenings before Mercury turns retrograde and on the morning it moves forward again, so you can plan around it.