Mars and Uranus aligned around mid-June in what is known, astrologically, as a conjunction. These two planets are going to conjunct at least once every two years, and the duration of that conjunction is usually going to be short - around 4 days - in the course of more frequently observable cycles.
This year several phenomena came together (again, this is a cyclical event, but one of unusual dimensions) in which the retrograde motion of Mars (retrogradation cycle is about once every two years for Mars) coincided with the zodiacal placement of transiting Uranus. (This cycle is also periodic, and I'm not sure of its occurrence without some research, but it is more than two years). As a result of its current motion, Mars has been closely associating with Uranus for MONTHS. This association, or conjunction, will be separating in mid-October.
There is one other critical observation that needs to be made here: Mars is in a 60,000-year perihelion cycle. What this means is that once every 60,000 years, Mars is as close to Earth and the Sun as it is going to get. Consider the symbolism behind perihelion: heat, intensity, prominence, dominance. Consider Mars: aggression, boldness, action-taking, courage, exploration of foreign or unknown terrain, forging new pathways. Consider 60,000 years: how many of you can claim that their first incarnation on this planet goes back that far?
Now let's review Uranus. This planetary consciousness is often referred to as "The Awakener." It is associated with epiphanies of every type, from the scientific to the spiritual. It has tremendous historical significance, and I'm going to let you do the research on that. [Perhaps someone else would enjoy submitting a discussion on what was taking place when Uranus was discovered, and the kinds of events that have demanded global attention when Uranus has stationed, or has sustained significant configurations with other planets.]
Uranus disrupts and interrupts. It is visionary, and incisive in, and with, its vision. It challenges the status quo with an irrevocable, irreverent, and iconclastic approach. Chaos is always dancing around the edges of apparent stability, and in my opinion, is a requirement for sustaining and promoting life in all its forms. It brings necessary change. Stagnation leads to death. Uranus lets us know that we cannot take anything for granted, and the extent to which we are willing and able to work with the essence of the creative force that roils through everything is the extent to which we are going to successfully ride and integrate the implosive gifts of an in-your-face Uranus.
Look at this: Perihelion Mars conjoining Uranus for approximately 4 months. The fact that Mars has recently stationed to move forward imbues this conjunction with additional livening energy. Mars and Uranus together are going to force issues in every arena. It is an earth-moving energy that often results in earthquakes. And we're looking at not just a trigger for moving forward (whether fearlessly or not), but also for the finding of solutions, getting resolution and closure, and really moving out of old situations into new ones.
Where you are going to experience the greatest changes and challenges in your personal life is where the conjunction falls in your natal astrological chart - i.e., what house, and what specific aspects it is making to other planets in your chart. (Progressed and return charts should also be evaluated). Some genuinely FUNDAMENTAL changes and events will be taking place in those arenas. Mark my words.
Don't be surprised if you find yourself in a completely different environment and set of life circumstances over the next year, if what you've been looking for shows up (albeit in an unconventional package), or if what you've wished for suddenly lands in your lap. It could be a very enlightening exercise (along with being fun) to share with each other where your foundations have split this year, the size, shape, and smell of the hole/s you've found yourself in, and how you got out, or are getting out. (You will get out, unless you like being there. Your choice.) Have some unexpected allies appeared out of nowhere to offer assistance or new perspectives? Have people you thought you knew removed their disguises? Lots of fun in store and in-house. Good luck.