Is Mercury Retrograde real? Let's break it down.

It can be a fun musing, but what if it's just perceptive trickery?
By and  on 
What is Mercury Retrograde
Watch Next

Thinking about space for too long can be scary and overwhelming. Are we alone? Will we ever be able to live on another planet? Will black holes destroy the universe one day? What should you do if you ever encounter an alien? Don’t worry, our curious science producer will do all the excessive thinking for you, and teach you a thing or two in the process. With the help of experts, our producer will deep dive into all the interesting things that happen, have happened, and will happen in space.


Mercury retrograde has long permeated our culture in an attempt to explain phenomena like communication issues or travel woes. Here is what is actually happening when Mercury is "in retrograde."

Topics NASA

Mashable Image
Mark Kaufman
Science Editor

Mark is an award-winning journalist and the science editor at Mashable. After working as a ranger with the National Park Service, he started a reporting career after seeing the extraordinary value in educating people about the happenings on Earth, and beyond.

He's descended 2,500 feet into the ocean depths in search of the sixgill shark, ventured into the halls of top R&D laboratories, and interviewed some of the most fascinating scientists in the world.

You can reach Mark at [email protected].


More from Space Is Weird
NASA found evidence of ice on Mars. What does that mean?
Martian Ie

10 mind-blowing facts about space
mind-blowing space facts


How worried should we be about Solar Flares?
Solar Flares

NASA's Curiosity rover finds ancient waves on Mars
Ancient Mars Waves

Latest Videos

'Lilo and Stitch' trailer brings the iconic duo to live action
Stitch and Lilo in "Lilo & Stitch."


'Poker Face' Season 2 teaser: Natasha Lyonne tangles with Cynthia Erivo, John Mulaney, and more
Natasha Lyonne in "Poker Face."

Stephen Colbert goes to town on Trump and Musk's Tesla ad
Stephen Colbert presents "The Late Show."



John Mulaney surprises Jimmy Kimmel with a very niche gift
A man sits on a talk show opposite the host, touching something on the desk covered in black cloth. Another man is seen on a video call via a smartphone held by the host.



The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
These newsletters may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. By clicking Subscribe, you confirm you are 16+ and agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!