> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://asteroid-shiba.gitbook.io/asteroid-shiba-docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://asteroid-shiba.gitbook.io/asteroid-shiba-docs/referral-and-explorer-network/overview.md).

# How referrals work

Inviting friends isn't a side quest in Asteroid Shiba — it's a core way to grow. Your network follows you **into the game from day one**, and you earn a commission whenever the people you invited upgrade.

## Three levels deep

When someone joins through your link, they become your **Level 1**. When *they* invite someone, that person is your **Level 2**. One more step down is your **Level 3**. You earn a commission across all three levels.

```
You
 └─ L1  (your direct invites)
     └─ L2  (their invites)
         └─ L3  (and theirs)
```

## You earn when your network upgrades

Every time someone in your network buys a **Scanner upgrade**, you receive a commission — a percentage of what they spent, paid to you **instantly in ASTRO**. See [**Rates & active referrals**](/asteroid-shiba-docs/referral-and-explorer-network/rates.md).

## Paid by the game — never taken from your friends

Your commission is paid **by the game, on top**. Your friend gets their full upgrade; you receive your ASTRO reward separately. Nothing is deducted from anyone.

> Your friend buys a Scanner upgrade → they get the full upgrade. You receive your commission in ASTRO, added on top.

Because it's paid in ASTRO, you can put it straight to work — invest it in [Research](/asteroid-shiba-docs/research/overview.md) to grow your own income, or withdraw it.

## Two things your network gives you

1. **Upgrade commission** — a percentage of your network's Scanner-upgrade spend, in ASTRO. See [**Rates & active referrals**](/asteroid-shiba-docs/referral-and-explorer-network/rates.md).
2. **Explorer Network bonus** — a boost to your own find-chance based on how many *active* explorers you have. See [**Explorer Network bonus**](/asteroid-shiba-docs/referral-and-explorer-network/explorer-bonus.md).

**Next:** [Rates & active referrals →](/asteroid-shiba-docs/referral-and-explorer-network/rates.md)


---

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