Salem commented recently on the Case Briefings Thread, surprised to see Retrograde NODES in a chart.
The Mean NODES are retrograde more often than not, while the True NODES blip back & forth, direct, then Rx, & repeat. The difference in degree position of True vs. Mean is not great --- about a degree --- but that can make a difference in a horary chart when you are looking to see if any planet or sensitive point is in the degree of the NODES.
Which set you use-- True or Mean -- is a matter of preference. Some astrologers use both, others stick with one or the other. It is traditional in horary astrology to use the Mean NODES, but I have used True NODES and gotten good results. It's not a bad idea to look at both placements when working with a chart. (Most astrology software programs will let you set a preference, and some show both positions.)
Here is a short blurb from Astrology.com for those interested in learning more about the Moon's Nodes:
The Moon's North and South Nodes (the Dragon's
http://www.astrologycom.com/retro.html# Head and Tail) are normally retrograde in their movement through the zodiac. The Nodes are not actual planets, but rather sensitive points, or "shadow planets" that have a powerful influence comparable with planetary strength. The True Node from time to time turns direct in motion for a few days, due to the phenomenon known as the
Moon Wobble; such direct periods are generally considered unfortunate. The Mean Node is always retrograde, as the "Wobble" is averaged out for convenience. Read more about the Moon's Nodes.
http://www.astrologycom.com/retro.html
Thanks,
Soulscape