Cardano and Midnight Integrate Starstream for Multi-Chain Compatibility
Developers working on Cardano and its privacy-focused partner chain, Midnight, have introduced new features using a tool called Starstream. Originally developed by the Midnight Foundation, Starstream is not limited to a single blockchain. Instead, it is designed to function on any network that chooses to support it, enabling software to operate across multiple chains without being completely rewritten.
Portable Contracts Across Networks
Starstream allows programmers to create a single smart contract—a small blockchain program—that can run on several chains simultaneously. Historically, smart contracts were tied to one network, requiring full redevelopment to deploy the same logic elsewhere. With Starstream, contracts are now portable, adapting to the unique features of each supported chain.
For example, a contract can access the current block height from the Cardano network and incorporate it into its own logic. The significance lies not in the mathematics, but in the contract’s ability to interact safely with one chain while remaining compatible with others.
Midnight and Privacy-First Computation
Midnight, described as a privacy-focused counterpart to Cardano, emphasizes secure, private computation. This approach allows calculations and verifications to be performed without exposing all underlying data to the public. Starstream’s flexible design complements this privacy-first model, making cross-chain private computation possible.
The long-term vision is to replicate an EVM-like network effect for privacy-preserving applications. Similar to Ethereum’s shared environment, where tools, contracts, and developer expertise are reusable, Starstream aims to establish a similar ecosystem for private smart contracts, enabling interoperability without compromising confidentiality.
