Smart Node v1.17.0 is now live, bringing major client updates—most of which raise the default block gas limit to 45M—and a new pruning feature that allows node operators to reduce storage needs by enabling partial history expiry. This is a recommended update for all Node Operators. Full details and upgrade instructions: https://github.com/rocket-pool/smartnode/releases/tag/v1.17.0.

In July 2025, the Rocket Pool community comes together to celebrate Samus, a cherished member who has just become a dad. Community members joined a thread to share their congratulations and offer kind words of support as he embarks on this exciting new chapter.

Rocket Pool has released Smart Node v1.15.7, a major update featuring critical client upgrades, oDAO health check fixes, and a major consolidation of legacy repositories into the main smartnode repo for easier future development. Node operators who upgrade are eligible to claim a commemorative POAP. Release details and update instructions are available here: https://github.com/rocket-pool/smartnode/releases/tag/v1.15.7.

This thread was a space for Rocket Pool believers to share why they were still here—what they believed in about Rocket Pool and RPL, what it felt like to hold through the lows, and how they could stay positive and proactive. It offered support, reflection, and encouragement, grounded in shared values around decentralization and Ethereum staking. The focus stayed on honest experiences, not blame or mockery—just voices from those still building and believing. Participants received a POAP.

Ken hosted a special guest from AlphaGrowth to to discuss whether the DAO should source funding from a bridge fee. Join the Rocket Pool community calls on Discord at discord.gg/rocketpool, and on X at x.com/rocket_pool

Rocket Pool has had separate quora for on-chain and snapshot voting. This isn't really the intent; it's based on getting similar absolute requirements given that one is a percent of all vote power and the other is a percent of initialized vote power. haloooloolo has volunteered to initialize more vote power so that the difference is small and Rocket Pool can use a single quorum going forward without more tweaks. Buyers of this POAP helped fund this community initiative to initialize on-chain vote power!

Ken hosted a special guest from Primex to chat about a new DeFi opportunity for rETH liquid stakers. Join the Rocket Pool community calls on Discord at discord.gg/rocketpool