US Pluto Return Part 2: Pluto in Aquarius and the Technological Revolution
- Shanae Smith
- Oct 8, 2024
- 11 min read
Updated: Feb 25
US Pluto Return (Moving into) Aquarius: The Revolution of Power and Technology
As a refresher: In Part 1 of the U.S. Pluto Return, we explored how Pluto in Capricorn (2008–2023) dismantled outdated power structures—governments, economies, corporate hierarchies. Now, as US Pluto return continues and transitions into Aquarius (2023–2044), we’re entering an entirely new phase of upheaval.
This isn’t just a continuation—it’s a radical shift. While Pluto in Capricorn collapsed traditional institutions and financial systems, Pluto in Aquarius ushers in technological transformation, decentralization, and digital power struggles.
The question now isn’t just who holds power—but how power functions, who gets access to it, and whether it will be controlled by regular ole' humans at all.
Pluto’s time in Capricorn forced society to confront where authority truly lies as old systems crumbled. But Pluto in Aquarius doesn’t just disrupt the past—it propels us toward an entirely new world, one built on technology, data, and decentralization.
If you thought Pluto in Capricorn was chaotic, just wait. Pluto in Aquarius brings a revolution in digital identity, AI, and power structures that may no longer be controlled by governments alone. As Pluto moves into Aquarius from 2023–2044, the question isn’t just who holds power, but what power even looks like in an age of technological transformation.
Below is a breakdown of how Pluto’s themes are shifting:
Pluto in Capricorn (2008–2023) | Pluto in Aquarius (2024–2044) |
Collapse of Institutions – Governments, corporations, and financial systems faced instability and restructuring and a loss of public trust. | Collapse of Traditional Systems & Digital Takeover – Institutions lose influence as AI, automation, and decentralized networks reshape society—sometimes in ways we can’t control. |
Elite Gatekeeping – Wealth and power were concentrated in the hands of a few, the era of the billionaire, the 1%. | Information Wars & Digital Elites – The battle for knowledge, privacy, and AI control creates new power struggles—will digital access free us, or create new overlords? |
Financial Power Struggles – Economic crashes, wealth inequality, and corporate dominance defined this era, money goes up the chain. | Wealth Disruptions & Unstable Markets – Crypto, AI economies, and decentralized finance shake traditional wealth structures, but also bring volatility and new financial crises. |
Top-Down Control – Authority was enforced through government and corporate power. | Unstable Power Structures – Decentralization removes old authorities, but creates chaos—who will lead when no one holds power in the same way anymore? |
Pluto doesn’t bring gentle change—it brings destruction before renewal. While Pluto in Aquarius may promise decentralization, technological advancement, and shifts in power, it will not come without struggle. The fall of institutions creates instability, and the rise of new systems brings unintended consequences.
Who controls AI, automation, and data? Will decentralization lead to empowerment or to chaos? Pluto ensures we face the truth of our systems—whether we like what we find or not.
Why Should You Read This Post? - Pluto In Aquarius - Entering into the Age of Aquarius
By the end of this post, you’ll:
Understand how Pluto in Aquarius marks a radical shift in power so you can see how technology, decentralization, and AI are reshaping the world.
Recognize how Pluto in Capricorn’s collapse led to Pluto in Aquarius’ revolution so you can make sense of how historical cycles are repeating in new forms.
Explore the key themes of Pluto in Aquarius—digital identity, decentralization, and AI ethics so you can anticipate where major global shifts are headed.
See why Pluto in Aquarius won’t act alone so you can understand how Neptune in Aries and Uranus in Gemini are shaping this new era.
Gain insight into Pluto’s personal impact on your life so you can begin aligning with its transformative energy instead of resisting it.
Pluto in Aquarius: The Revolution of Power, Freedom, and Liberty
When Pluto last entered Aquarius in 1777, it coincided with the American Revolution, a struggle to break free from the tyranny of the British crown. The core themes were liberty, self-determination, and the rejection of top-down control. People were no longer willing to be subjects of a monarchy that taxed them without representation or limited their freedoms. This Plutonic shift in Aquarius reflected a deep, transformative desire to create a new world where freedom and equality were the guiding principles.
We can see similar themes emerging now. As Pluto re-enters Aquarius, we’re looking at a new revolution—one that challenges not just political authority but also the control wielded by corporations, financial institutions, and technological monopolies. Just like in the 18th century, the call for freedom is loud, but this time it's less about kings and more about breaking free from the new forms of control that define our modern world.
Freedom From Oppression: Pluto’s Role in Social Transformation
Aquarius, traditionally ruled by Saturn, is a sign associated with social progress, humanitarian ideals, and collective empowerment. While Saturn’s energy in Aquarius is focused on building structures that support collective well-being, Pluto’s role is to tear down systems of oppression that no longer serve the people. This was evident during the American Revolution when the colonies fought for independence from the crown. The same energy that spurred the revolution 250 years ago will be reactivated, but now it’s aimed at freeing us from the constraints of the modern world—whether those are
economic, technological, or social in nature.
Pluto’s energy isn’t just about external freedom; it’s about internal transformation. The American Revolution didn’t just liberate people from British rule—it ignited a process of self-determination. People began to question who they were and what they wanted their new world to look like. This is what Pluto does best—it forces us to look at the core of who we are, face uncomfortable truths, and transform them into something new and empowered.
Expect to see a rise in movements that demand social justice, equity, and freedom from the influence of oppressive systems, whether that be corporations, governments, or entrenched hierarchies. The Aquarian ideal of liberty for all will drive these transformations, just as it did in the late 18th century.
Pluto’s Transit and the Fight for Freedom in History
The last time Pluto transited through Aquarius from 1777 to 1797, the American colonies weren’t just fighting for freedom from British control—they were also grappling with the institution of slavery. The ideals of liberty and equality that drove the Revolution were inherently contradictory when it came to the enslavement of African people. Yet, this period planted the seeds for future abolition movements that would eventually bring about the end of slavery in the U.S. during Pluto’s transit through Taurus in the 19th century.
These powerful shifts in the social fabric were all tied to the Plutonic process of death and rebirth. The old ways of doing things—whether it was monarchies or slave-based economies—had to be dismantled so something new and more aligned with the principles of freedom and equality could emerge. It’s important to recognize that Pluto’s energy doesn’t just dissolve structures for the sake of chaos—it does so to clear the way for transformation and evolution.
The same will be true in the coming years. Pluto in Aquarius is going to challenge the systems that have concentrated wealth, power, and technology in the hands of a few, paving the way for a more equitable, community-driven future.
Freedom, Technology, and Innovation
Let’s get into what this means practically. Pluto in Aquarius will bring about massive changes in areas like technology, community, and social systems. We’re already seeing the beginnings of this revolution with the rise of AI, automation, and digital innovations reshaping industries and daily life. This is a key part of the coming transformation, but it’s only one piece.
As we saw during the American Revolution, the fight for freedom wasn’t just about politics—it was about creating a new world where individuals had the right to determine their own destinies. Pluto in Aquarius will continue that theme, but in a modern context. Technology will become a major battlefield—are we using it to liberate ourselves, or are we being controlled by it?
Aquarius, under Saturn’s rulership, favors structures that serve the collective good. It’s not about tearing down systems for the sake of chaos, but about building something better—something more innovative, fair, and equitable. While this shift will undoubtedly be disruptive, it’s also a time to create systems that empower individuals rather than control them.
The Technological Revolution
Let’s get into what this means practically. Pluto in Aquarius is going to hit fast and hard in areas related to technology, community, and societal structures. We’re already seeing the beginning of this, with AI, automation, and digital innovations starting to reshape industries and lives. But this is just the tip of the iceberg. The real revolution will come when Pluto fully settles into Aquarius and eventually trines Uranus in Gemini.
During this time, technology will likely take over many aspects of daily life in ways that are hard to imagine right now. The rise of AI and robotics will mean that many jobs we’ve known for decades may disappear, or at the very least, drastically change. But it’s not all dystopian—the positive side is that these advancements will also bring incredible opportunities for those who embrace them.
Aquarius is all about progress, the future, and finding new ways to do things. We’ll see huge breakthroughs in fields like space exploration, renewable energy, and maybe even areas we haven’t dreamed up yet. It’s not just about tech—Aquarius also rules social change. The collective is going to rise, and movements focused on equality, justice, and human rights will gain even more momentum.
But with Pluto involved, nothing is ever easy. Change will come, but it might feel messy, chaotic, or even threatening at times. It’s the nature of Pluto to dig up the ugly underbelly of systems so they can be transformed. So expect disruption, but know that it’s all part of the process.
A New Power Dynamic
One of the most fascinating parts of this transit will be how power shifts. We’ve been living in a top-down hierarchy, especially in the U.S., for a long time. This is Pluto in Capricorn at work—big corporations, CEOs, and the 1% holding the majority of wealth and influence. But Aquarius doesn’t work that way. Aquarius is a sign of the people, of grassroots movements, and of revolution from the ground up.
When Pluto enters Aquarius, the power dynamics will start to shift toward the collective. We’re going to see a rise in decentralized systems—think cryptocurrency, blockchain technology, and new forms of community-driven governance -- as well as things we can't really imagine yet. This is where the real revolution begins. The people are going to take back control in ways that are innovative and disruptive to the existing structures.
Now, I’m not saying we’re heading for a utopia—Aquarius energy is far too complex for that. There will be tension, and not everyone will agree on how to move forward. But this is where the beauty of Aquarius comes in: it’s all about finding a way to integrate individuality with collective progress. It’s about creating a world where personal freedom and community responsibility can coexist.
Pluto’s Impact on the U.S. Chart
Let’s bring this back to the United States chart for a second. With the U.S. having its Pluto return in Capricorn, we’re already seeing the breakdown of outdated systems. But Pluto’s transit into Aquarius will bring a new wave of challenges. This isn’t just about the government or corporations—it’s about the everyday person, the workforce, and how we navigate this technological revolution together.
Here’s where things get really interesting. The U.S. has a Sagittarius rising, with Pluto transiting from the 2nd house of finances and resources into the 3rd house of communication, technology, and local communities. Expect to see a lot of shifts in how we use technology, how we communicate with each other, and even how local communities function. The future is going to look very different from the present, and Pluto is here to make sure that we’re prepared—whether we like it or not.
The Role of Saturn and Innovation
While Aquarius is a sign often associated with progress and change, Saturn as its ruler ensures that any transformation is methodical and purposeful. This isn’t the reckless innovation of Uranus (though it’s often confused for it)—this is about constructing a new order, one that is built to withstand the tests of time. Saturn’s influence will make sure that any advances we see during Pluto’s transit through Aquarius are sustainable, not fleeting trends.
Expect breakthroughs in technology and science, but also in how society organizes itself. Traditional power structures—governments, corporations, financial systems—may face challenges, but Saturn will ensure that whatever takes their place is structured and responsible. Aquarius isn’t just about revolution; it’s about innovation that benefits the collective, with a focus on long-term growth.
Key Themes from the LAST Pluto in Aquarius (1777-1797):
Freedom and Revolution: American and French revolutions reshaped political structures, moving from monarchy to democracy, embodying the Aquarian values of collective power and freedom from tyranny.
Innovation and Technology: The Industrial Revolution’s early stages transformed economies and societies, highlighting Aquarius’ connection to technology and progress.
Social Equality and Humanitarianism: The abolitionist movement and the push for human rights reflected Pluto in Aquarius’ drive for equality, collective good, and transformation of oppressive systems.
Intellectualism and Enlightenment: The rise of intellectualism, science, and reason during the Enlightenment paralleled Aquarius’ emphasis on progress, rational thought, and the advancement of human knowledge.
What’s Next for Pluto in Aquarius
If all of this sounds overwhelming, that’s because it is and likely will be. Pluto transits are never light or easy—they are about deep, transformative change. But knowing this energy is coming gives you a huge advantage. You don’t have to be blindsided by the shifts Pluto brings. Instead, you can work with it, align yourself with these changes, and find ways to grow and evolve.
This is where astrology comes in. By looking at your own chart, you can see exactly how Pluto’s transit through Aquarius will affect you personally. Are you going to feel it in your career? In your relationships? In your sense of identity? Whatever the case, Pluto will ask you to evolve—and when you embrace it, that’s where the magic happens.
Pluto in Aquarius: How This Shift Affects You
While Pluto’s move into Aquarius will reshape global systems, industries, and collective structures, it’s important to remember that no transit happens in isolation. The early years of Pluto in Aquarius will be inseparable from the other major generational shifts happening at the same time—Neptune entering Aries and Uranus entering Gemini.
While Pluto’s movement through Aquarius will largely shape global systems, industries, and collective structures, it will also affect individuals in significant ways. You may feel this shift in:
Your Relationship with Technology – Are you embracing AI and digital evolution, or resisting it?
Decentralization in Your Own Life – Are you drawn to non-traditional work, communities, or power structures?
Intellectual Awakening – Pluto in Aquarius disrupts complacency. Where in your life are you being pushed toward radical change?
If you’re wondering how these massive generational shifts might impact you personally and collectively, I dive deeper into the big-picture movement of these outer planets here:
Ready to Navigate Your Pluto Journey? Let’s Get Personal.
Pluto doesn’t ask for small changes—it demands transformation. You can either fight against the current or learn to work with it. Where is Pluto in Aquarius activating radical shifts in your life? What old cycles need to break so you can step into something new?
Where is Pluto pushing you to innovate, challenge the norm, and step into your power?
What deep transformations are unfolding in your life that you need to prepare for?
How can you align with Pluto’s energy rather than feeling like it’s forcing you into chaos?
✨ Want to align your personal growth with these larger cycles? Grab my 5-Day Mini Course: Setting Aligned Goals That Work for You and learn how to work with long-term planetary transits to create real, lasting change in your life.
🔮 Curious about Pluto’s impact on your chart? Pluto transits bring deep transformation, but they don’t always feel clear at the moment. A one-on-one astrology consultation can help you understand what’s shifting and how to navigate these major life cycles with clarity and confidence.
Big change is coming. But with awareness, you can move with it instead of feeling overwhelmed by it. 💫
Key Takeaways
Pluto in Aquarius will revolutionize power structures. Unlike Pluto in Capricorn, which focused on corporate and government power, Pluto in Aquarius shifts influence to technology, AI, and decentralization such as grass roots movements and freedom of choices.
This is not just a technological boom—it’s a power struggle. Who controls AI? Who owns digital identity? Who holds influence in a decentralized world? These are the real Pluto in Aquarius battles.
Pluto doesn’t just bring progress—it brings upheaval first. While innovation will flourish, it won’t come without ethical dilemmas, instability, and loss of control over certain structures.
Pluto in Aquarius won’t act alone. The overlapping transits of Neptune in Aries and Uranus in Gemini will shape how these transformations unfold, setting the course for an entirely new generational paradigm.
Pluto’s shifts will have both global and personal consequences. Whether through your career, your relationship with technology, or your sense of belonging in a changing world, everyone will feel this transit on some level.
Comments