The Ropsten testnet on the Ethereum network is reportedly gearing towards commencing its “first dress rehearsal” of the Merge, in a bid to finalize the adoption of the proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism.

Specifically, Core Ethereum developer Tim Beiko reportedly revealed on May 31st that the introduction of a new Beacon Chain for Ropsten has been completed, which will operate as the precursor for the final test Merge, with the expected timeline being “around June 8th.”

The Ropsten testnet is reportedly among the numerous testing grounds catering to Ethereum customers. It mimics aspects of the Ethereum mainnet including the utilization of a valueless form of Ether (ETH) to carry out transactions and the coding environment, but adjustments conducted there have no impact on the mainnet.

Ropsten is also Ethereum’s longest-running proof-of-Work (PoW) testnet, which was rolled out in 2016.

Ropsten finally experiencing its own Merge will reportedly offer a first look at the potential visual of the real Merge on the Ethereum mainnet. The resulting impacts on the testnet, its applications and customers will offer engineers the unprecedented glimpses into the expectations closest to reality regarding what happens for the mainnet Merge, as well as the way to steer clear from issues before they surfaces.

Beiko additionally remarked that the preparation process developers and node runners are working on still requires a few more details in the time leading up to the Ropsten Merge date. 

It is compulsory that the Beacon Chain release the latest upgrade, and the mining difficulty, regarded to as the TTD, of the PoW side has to be determined.

The upgrade will be introduced in the initial stage, with by the TTD following suite, which “should be chosen by June ⅔,” per Beiko.