Stratis is pleased to announce the successful relaunch and hardfork of the Auroria testnet, representing a major milestone in the journey toward enabling Masternode Staking on the Stratis Mainnet.
The Auroria network was relaunched to closely replicate mainnet conditions, ensuring all changes and deployments could be accurately tested in a like-for-like environment. This approach allows the development team and community to validate new features with confidence and prepare for a seamless transition to mainnet.
Simulating the Future with Confidence
At the core of this relaunch is the introduction of a new Masternode Staking protocol, designed to enhance rewards for existing masternode operators. The protocol enables current Masternode Registrants to stake their collateral and register within the Masternode Staking contract, unlocking the ability to earn additional rewards.
To participate, registrants must first withdraw their existing collateral, then register on the Masternode Staking protocol. In doing so, they receive a liquid staking token, mSTRAX, which represents their staked collateral. This mSTRAX can then be used as collateral to register on the Masternode Contract, effectively allowing the same collateral to be active in both protocols.
Rewards from both the Masternode Contract and the Masternode Staking protocol will continue to be paid out in STRAX, preserving the simplicity of returns while enhancing overall yield. More information about how the Masternode Staking protocol works can be found here.
To support this advancement, a hardfork was executed on the Auroria testnet, introducing the required updates to the Masternode Contract. This hardfork simulates what will take place on the Stratis Mainnet and is a critical step in ensuring the readiness and stability of the upgrade path.
All changes introduced through the hardfork—including the Masternode Staking logic—have undergone a comprehensive security audit by Zokyo, a leading blockchain security firm. The audit identified no vulnerabilities, further strengthening trust in the upcoming deployment.
Preparing for Mainnet Activation
Stratis is now actively engaging with partners to coordinate the most suitable timing for the corresponding mainnet hardfork. These discussions are progressing well, and with final preparations underway, the mainnet activation is expected to follow sooner rather than later.
As part of the preparation, updated binaries containing the hardfork activation logic will be released ahead of time. This proactive approach will give validators ample time to upgrade in advance, helping to ensure the transition occurs with minimal disruption and the least possible impact on network stability.
Live Staking Options and the Importance of Validator Diversity
While the Masternode Staking protocol is undergoing final preparation, Stratis reminds the community that its Liquid Staking protocol is already live on mainnet and available at liquid.stratisplatform.com. This offers a simple way for STRAX holders to begin earning passive rewards immediately, with no technical setup required.
Looking Ahead
The Auroria testnet relaunch and hardfork serve as a strong signal of progress and readiness as Stratis approaches one of its most anticipated mainnet upgrades. With a successful simulation, a clean audit, and ongoing coordination across the ecosystem, the stage is set for a new chapter in staking on Stratis.
Further updates will follow shortly, including the release of binaries and confirmation of the mainnet hardfork date. In the meantime, Stratis invites validators, developers, and token holders to prepare for participation and help shape the future of the network.
The best way to stay up to date is by joining the Stratis community on Discord: https://discord.com/invite/9tDyfZs
