The third Mercury Retrograde of the year takes place in the analytical, practical, and meticulous sign of Virgo. As a matter of fact, all of the 2023 Mercury Retrogrades occur in Earth signs, with the final one of the year changing from Earth to Fire. 

The last Mercury retrograde took place in May 2023 and lasted until May 31, 2023, in the sign of Taurus. However, the last time the planet of information retrograded in Virgo was on September 23, 2022.

Mercury Retrograde is a transit that many of us dread because of the possibilities of misunderstandings, delays or disruptions in travel, and glitches in technology. In astrology, Mercury is associated with communication, intellect, and decision-making, while Virgo represents practicality. When these two elements combine during the retrograde period, there could be opportunities as well as challenges in many areas of life.