Aster has released a comprehensive roadmap for the first half of 2026, outlining a series of strategic steps aimed at strengthening its technical infrastructure and improving user experience. Key highlights include new features that enhance transaction security, developer-focused network tools, and mechanisms that deepen community participation. The team emphasizes that the goal is to transform Aster from a simple DEX into a multifaceted Web3 ecosystem.
Aster Chain Mainnet Launching in Q1 2026
The team announced that the long-awaited Aster Chain mainnet will go live in the first quarter of 2026. The launch is considered a major milestone for the platform’s technical capabilities. As part of this phase, Aster’s developer code will be released, and fiat on/off-ramps will be activated.
This will make ecosystem access easier for users and provide developers with a broader environment to build new applications. The move is expected to expand Aster’s use cases and support the development of a more robust on-chain infrastructure.

“Shield Mode” and TWAP Orders Coming in December 2025
In early December 2025, the platform will introduce an enhanced “Shield Mode,” specifically designed for high-leverage trading. The mode aims to reduce risk by enabling more controlled management of positions during periods of high volatility. During the same period, the platform will also activate Time-Weighted Average Price (TWAP) strategy orders, frequently used by professional traders. TWAP allows users to execute large trades gradually over time, minimizing price impact. Both features are expected to significantly improve user experience and transaction security.
Aster will also implement an RWA (Real-World Assets) upgrade in mid-December to boost liquidity in its stock perpetual futures market. The move is viewed as a structural expansion that bridges traditional finance with blockchain-based finance.

At the end of December, the Aster Chain testnet will officially launch for community testing. Users will be able to experience the network architecture in real time, test performance, and report issues directly to the team, contributing to the development process. The testnet phase is expected to provide valuable insights on security and scalability, paving the way for a more robust mainnet launch.
Staking and On-Chain Governance for ASTER Token
In the second quarter of 2026, ASTER token staking will be enabled. Users will be able to stake tokens to help secure the network and earn rewards. During the same period, an on-chain governance system will be introduced, giving the community greater influence in decision-making processes.
The Aster team stated regarding the roadmap:
“We plan to activate Aster Chain as a mainnet in Q1 2026. We are entering a strong expansion phase across four key areas: infrastructure, ecosystem growth, token economy, and community engagement.”
Conclusion
Aster’s 2026 roadmap aims to transform the project from a decentralized exchange into a broader blockchain infrastructure platform. Core initiatives such as the mainnet launch, RWA integration, and staking stand out as key components supporting the ecosystem’s long-term growth potential. Throughout 2026, Aster aims to deliver a more comprehensive and versatile Web3 experience for both developers and users.

