Main highlights:
- Aster Chain Testnet launched today, December 24, 2025.
- The chain has selected 1,000 testers from 360,000 registrations.
- Whitelisted users are allowed to claim 1,000 USDT and 1,000 ASTER daily via the daily tap on BSC TestNet.
Aster Chain Testnet went live today, December 24, 2025, and it was also announced that the blockchain has selected 1,000 users from 360,000 applications to participate in testing the practice version of the Aster blockchain. This announcement was made via social media platform X.
The Vanguard has met ✨
From more than 360,000 applications, 1,000 mission-driven traders have been selected to pioneer Aster Chain Testnet.
Select testers can now connect their whitelisted wallets to https://t.co/CD2IteoxpC, claim Testnet tokens from the tap and start… pic.twitter.com/WrzCOPdPBj
— Aster (@Aster_DEX) December 24, 2025
The testnet runs on BSC TestNet and lets users try out new features before the main network launch, which is scheduled for the first quarter of 2026. The applications were closed on December 22 and access was only granted to users approved through the whitelist.
Testnet objectives and infrastructure
The main reason for the existence of this network is to evaluate new features and products aimed at Aster users. So basically, as mentioned above, this blockchain is a training or experimental blockchain on the BSC TestNet. Since the blockchain is on BSC TestNet, it becomes important to have wallet compatibility with BSC networks.
In order for the selected users to access the blockchain, they must connect their addresses to the whitelist to begin testing.
Participant selection process
The DEX platform had received over 360,000 registrations and the platform selected only 1,000 users and they are called the ‘Vanguards’. These users have been chosen to be the first to try and test the Aster testnet.
The Vanguards are early adopters who help test features, identify issues, and provide feedback during this testing phase. To keep the network stable, Aster limited the number of participants.
Authentication and whitelist access
As mentioned above, access is only available to users whose wallet addresses have been officially added to the whitelist. Selected participants must confirm eligibility before linking their wallet.
The platform keeps its doors open for users who are not selected. The announcement also notes that users who are not selected can contact the Aster team on Discord and inquire about possible future access. For the time being, however, all positions for testnet spots have been filled.
Daily token distribution via tap
Approved users (whitelisted) can get free test tokens via a special tap page. Each user can claim tokens once every 24 hours. With each claim they will receive 1,000 TestNet USDT and 1,000 TestNet Aster. These tokens are for testing purposes only and do not represent true value for money.
Nuclear test components
Testers are asked to check how certain key features work on the testnet. They mainly test perpetual and spot trading to see if trades are running smoothly, hidden orders to confirm that they are being executed correctly without being visible, and the Layer-1 (L1) Explorer to ensure that the users can easily monitor the trades and activity on the network.
Testing these areas will also allow Aster to gather feedback, if any, on things like speed, reliability, and ease of use via Discord before the main launch.
As of now, access is only granted to 1,000 users, but the platform plans to expand access as the network grows.
Context with Roadmap 2026
Earlier in 2025, Aster focused on mergers, app launches and stock market listings. However, the launch of this testnet fits into Aster’s larger 2026 roadmap, which includes launching the main network, adding staking and introducing governance features. Improving privacy and fairness, such as using zero-knowledge proofs and reducing MEV risks, is also a key priority.
Also read: Brevis and Aster collaborate to increase speed and security in DEXs