Eclipse, the Ethereum layer-2 network project, is gearing up for its mainnet launch, and it’s turning to Solana’s tech stack for execution. The project aims to go live before the year comes to a close, leveraging the strengths of both Ethereum and Solana.
A Modular Approach to Blockchain Stack
Traditional blockchains, like Bitcoin and Ethereum, handle execution, settlement, consensus, and data availability within a single layer. In contrast, modular blockchains, such as Eclipse, break down these tasks into specific layers. Neel Somani, the founder of Eclipse, asserts that all layer-2 solutions should be viewed as “modular blockchains,” emphasizing the separation of execution from settlement.
Solana Virtual Machine (SVM) Powers Execution
Eclipse’s mainnet will employ Solana’s Virtual Machine (SVM) for execution, the crucial layer that governs transaction code and rules. Unlike Ethereum’s sequential transaction execution, Solana’s parallel execution environment allows for processing more transactions at a lower cost. Additionally, the “local fee markets” feature ensures that high activity in one application doesn’t impact fees for others.
Risc Zero: Enhancing Proving for Eclipse
The proving layer for Eclipse will be powered by Risc Zero, contributing to the modular design of the blockchain. This layer is essential for verifying the correctness and authenticity of transactions within the network.
Settlement on Ethereum with an Eye on EIP-4844
Settlement, a pivotal aspect of the blockchain, will take place on Ethereum, leveraging its robust security properties. Eclipse acknowledges the importance of Ethereum’s ongoing upgrades, with a keen eye on the potential migration to Ethereum’s Data Availability (DA) layer in the future. The team closely monitors Ethereum’s EIP-4844 upgrade, recognizing the need for scalability in the Ethereum ecosystem.
Data Availability from Celestia: A Trust-Minimized Approach
Celestia provides the data availability (DA) layer for Eclipse, utilizing Data Availability Sampling (DAS) instead of a Data Availability Committee (DAC). This approach minimizes trust assumptions, a distinctive feature compared to many rollup solutions prevalent in the blockchain space.
In conclusion, Eclipse’s adoption of Solana’s tech stack, coupled with a modular design philosophy, positions it as a promising player in the evolving landscape of layer-2 solutions. The combination of Solana’s efficient execution and Ethereum’s robust settlement, along with innovative approaches to proving and data availability, sets the stage for a dynamic mainnet launch. As the project continues to evolve, the team remains vigilant about industry developments, particularly Ethereum’s upgrades, ensuring scalability and adaptability in the ever-changing blockchain ecosystem.
