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Minimalist in weight, but not in design—an efficient solo tent with just enough room for comfort when keeping things fast and light.
Terra Nova says
Built for ultra-light backpackers and adventure racers, the Solar Photon 2 is a tent that refuses to compromise on strength despite its featherweight design. Weighing in at just 855g minimum weight, it is engineered for those who count every gram on long-distance expeditions.
For 2025, we’ve introduced AiroCorner™ technology, enhancing groundsheet structural stability for better performance in poor weather conditions. Its recycled, PFC-free flysheet and Triplex™ groundsheet reduce environmental impact while improving durability and UV resistance. The front-entry door and fly hoods at both ends provide excellent ventilation, ensuring comfort even on warm nights. The tent’s stable shape and DAC Green Anodised poles make it wind-resistant, perfect for unpredictable conditions.
Note: Due to the super-light nature of the material used in the construction of the tent, we are unable to factory seal the seams in a conventional method. However, they are positioned and sewn in a way that minimises water penetration. It’s possible to add further protection yourself, with a seam sealer, to fully waterproof the tent.
Our Verdict
Ultralight yet weather-resistant, the updated Solar Photon 2 is a strong option for solo backpackers or those travelling fast and light.
At just 1,028g, this is an incredibly light two-person double-wall tent, but it still feels surprisingly capable in poor weather. The 2025 model introduces AiroCorner tech—a structural upgrade to the groundsheet that improves tension. Recycled, PFC-free, solution-dyed fabrics are a welcome shift toward lower-impact design.
Space-wise, it’s snug with two inside, and there’s no room for wide mats. It’s fine for a night, but personally, I see this more as a solo shelter with room for a kit. The vestibule is functional—enough space to cook in bad weather—but not generous, especially if shared between two people.
Ventilation is solid, with fly hoods at both ends to help minimise condensation. Setup is quick, and while I’d consider swapping out the minimal pegs, once pitched and guyed out properly, it holds shape well in wind.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Features
- Ultra-lightweight design – only 960g max weight for serious backpackers.
- New AiroCorner™ technology – more reliable groundsheet waterproofing with added strength, stability and longevity..
- Sustainably made – recycled, PFC-free, solution-dyed fabrics.
- Quick & easy setup – fast-pitching for minimal camp time.
- Excellent ventilation – front and rear fly hoods for airflow management.
- FASTPACK and Pitchlite compatible – for flexible weight-saving configurations.
Specifications
UOG Specs:
- Flysheet weighs: 290g
- Inner weighs: 315g
- Poleset weighs: 423g
- Total weight for comparison: 1028g (excludes pegs and bags)
- x13 pegs supplied weigh: 75g
Terra Nova Specs:
- Sleeps: 2
- Season Rating Spec: 3 season backpacking
- Free standing?: No (tent requires guy lines to be pitched)
- Minimum Weight: 852g
- Packed Weight: 940g
- Number of Doors: 1
- Packed Size: 37x14cm
Material & Construction
- Flysheet: 10D Nylon R/S Si / Si Recycled C0 2000mm HH
- Inner: 10D Nylon R/S Recycled C0 WR
- Floor: 20D Triple R/S Si / Si Recycled C0 SD 3000mm HH
- Poles: 8.7mm DAC NFL
- Pegs: 14 x 5.6g Alloy Pegs
- Hooks: 4 x 5.6g Alloy Hook
- Guylines: 4 x Dyneema® Reflective
- Inner Door: Full Mesh
