Mars retrograde
Periods when Marsappears to move backward in the sky relative to Earth's reference frame. Computed from astronomical motion, not interpreted.
Right now
2026 retrograde periods
No Mars retrograde periods identified for 2026 by 24-hour longitude delta.
2027 retrograde periods
| Station retrograde | Station direct | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 2027-01-11 | 2027-04-02 | 81 days |
Mars retrograde frequency
Mars is geocentrically retrograde every ~26 months, for ~60–80 days. The apparent reversal is not actual backward motion in space — it is a geometric effect of Earth's and Mars's differing orbital speeds.
Other planets' retrograde
Reference, not advice
This is cultural and astronomical reference, not personal prediction or advice.
Periods computed by sampling Mars's geocentric ecliptic longitude at daily intervals and identifying days where the 24-hour delta is negative. Edge dates may differ by ±1 day from ephemeris stations. This page does not recommend or warn against any personal activity.
Last reviewed .