Importance of Supporting the alt_bn128 Curve on Stellar

[mikirov]

Importance of Supporting the alt_bn128 Curve on Stellar

Ethereum and EVM-compatible networks rely on the alt_bn128 elliptic curve for cryptographic operations, exposing precompiles for addition, multiplication, and pairing checks. This curve is foundational for zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) projects like RISC Zero, zkSync, and SP1, enabling efficient on-chain verification of Groth16 proofs. Supporting alt_bn128 on Stellar is essential to integrate these technologies and expand the ecosystem's reach.

---

Why Stellar Needs alt_bn128 Support

1. Interoperability

   • Stellar lacks compatibility with Ethereum-based ZKP applications, limiting cross-chain integration and ZK adoption.

2. ZK Adoption

   • ZKPs are critical for scalability, privacy, and efficient computation. Without alt_bn128, Stellar misses opportunities in privacy-preserving and scalable applications.

3. Developer Attraction

   • Developers familiar with Ethereum's cryptographic precompiles are less likely to choose Stellar for advanced cryptographic use cases without similar support.

---

Benefits of alt_bn128 Support

1. Unlock ZK Applications: Enable privacy-preserving payments, zk-rollups, and decentralized identity on Stellar.
2. Interoperability: Seamlessly integrate Ethereum-based ZKP solutions like RISC Zero and zkSync.
3. Attract Developers: Encourage developers to build ZK and cryptographic-intensive applications on Stellar.
4. Ecosystem Growth: Foster innovative DeFi, privacy, and scalability-focused projects on Stellar.

---

Examples of Use Cases

1. Groth16 Verification: Projects like RISC Zero rely on efficient pairing checks for ZKP validation.
2. ZK Rollups: Enable zkSync-style rollups to increase transaction throughput on Stellar.
3. Privacy DeFi: Support privacy-focused protocols like Tornado Cash equivalents.
4. Cross-Chain Interoperability: Allow integration with ZK-based Ethereum protocols like Aztec and Nightfall.

Supporting alt_bn128 positions Stellar as a leading blockchain for ZKP applications, bridging the gap with Ethereum's advanced cryptographic ecosystem.