Rocket Pool Saturn One Launch: rETH Supply Drops, Validators Rise, Node Operators Fall

Published: 2026-02-24 16:45:50 |

Rocket Pool activated its Saturn One upgrade on mainnet. Key protocol metrics over the two weeks to 24 February 2026: rETH supply fell 0.9% to 342,584; pending/active validator count rose 12.5% to 18,278 following the Saturn One launch; node operator count declined 3.1% to 1,610. Smart Node client updates (v1.19.0–v1.19.2) were released to enable Saturn features and address client compatibility and urgent fixes. Immunefi bug-bounty tiers were adjusted to $150k/$15k/$5k. Governance reporting (pDAO) and integrations include a boosted APY for WETH/rETH Balancer LP deposits and new RPL perpetual listings. Media outreach included explanatory articles, community resources, and event presence (EthDenver). Rocket Pool reiterates its positioning as a decentralised Ethereum liquid staking protocol with >3,200 node operators and 700k+ ETH staked. Traders should note the rETH supply dip, validator onboarding surge, and node operator decline alongside upgrades and incentive changes that could affect rETH and RPL liquidity and yield dynamics.

Neutral

The news is neutral overall. Activation of the Saturn One upgrade and client updates are operational positives that reduce protocol risk long term. A 12.5% increase in pending/active validators signals higher staking activity and potential demand for rETH, which is constructive. However, rETH supply declined 0.9% and node operator count fell 3.1%, which introduces short-term uncertainty around validator capacity and decentralisation metrics. Incentives and integrations (boosted WETH/rETH APY, RPL listings, bug-bounty increases) are supportive for liquidity and token interest but are incremental rather than market-driving. For traders: expect potential short-term volatility in rETH and RPL as nodes upgrade and liquidity shifts; monitor on-chain flows (rETH mint/redemption), node operator upgrade rates, and Balancer LP deposits for directional cues. Historically, protocol upgrades with smooth activation have been neutral-to-mildly bullish for native tokens if they increase utility and demand; conversely, operator attrition or client issues can cause short-lived bearish pressure. Overall, no clear directional catalyst for a sustained move is present yet.