  The most discussed topic in direct search for dark matter is arguably the
verification of the DAMA claim. In fact, the observed annual modulation of the
signal rate in an array of NaI(Tl) detectors can be interpreted as the awaited
signature of dark matter interaction. Several experimental groups are currently
engaged in the attempt to verify such a game-changing claim with the same
target material. However, all present-day designs are based on a light readout
via Photomultiplier Tubes, whose high noise makes it challenging to achieve a
low background in the 1-6 keV energy region of the signal. Even harder it would
be to break below 1 keV energy threshold, where a large fraction of the signal
potentially awaits to be uncovered. ASTAROTH is an R\&D project to overcome
these limitations by using Silicon Photomultipliers (SiPM) matrices to collect
scintillation light from NaI(Tl). The all-active design based on cubic crystals
is operating in the 87-150 K temperature range where SiPM noise can be even a
hundred times lower with respect to PMTs. The cryostat was developed following
an innovative design and is based on a copper chamber immersed in a liquid
argon bath that can be instrumented as a veto detector. We have characterized
separately the crystal and the SiPM response at low temperature and we have
proceeded to the first operation of a NaI(Tl) crystal read by SiPM in cryogeny.
