The Aster layer-1 testnet is now live and open to all users. The launch provides public access to Aster’s new blockchain ahead of its planned mainnet release. The testnet allows users to interact with the network and test features in a live environment. The mainnet launch is scheduled for the first quarter of 2026.
Aster Layer-1 Testnet Marks Infrastructure Expansion
The Aster layer-1 testnet represents a major step in the project’s technical roadmap. The blockchain is designed to support high transaction throughput. It is intended to serve as native infrastructure for Aster’s products. The project is moving away from reliance on external blockchains. The testnet enables performance testing and network validation before full deployment.
Background of the Aster Layer-1 Blockchain
Aster began as a decentralized perpetual futures exchange. The platform focused on derivatives trading in decentralized finance. In 2025, Aster rebranded and shifted toward building its own blockchain. The Aster layer-1 blockchain is designed to support perpetual trading products directly on its network. This approach allows tighter integration between trading applications and core infrastructure.
Planned Features Following the Aster Layer-1 Testnet
Aster’s roadmap outlines several features planned after the testnet phase. These include fiat on-ramps, allowing users to convert traditional currency into crypto on the platform. The project also plans to release its blockchain codebase. This will allow developers to build applications on the Aster layer-1 network. Additional development focuses on infrastructure improvements, token utility, and ecosystem growth.
Testnet Access and Development Timeline
The Aster layer-1 testnet is available to all users without restrictions. It enables early experimentation with network functions before the mainnet launch. The project’s development timeline places the full mainnet release in Q1 2026. The testnet phase is intended to support testing, developer onboarding, and system refinement.
The Aster layer-1 testnet launch reflects broader activity in the blockchain sector. More projects are deploying application-specific blockchains. These networks aim to handle specialized workloads at scale. Aster’s testnet provides early access to its blockchain as part of this trend.
Source: https://cointelegraph.com/news/aster-layer-1-testnet-live-all-users
