SPHERA 2 RS

Buffer Section

RAST panel

Core Section

In paragliders with RAST, the canopy is divided internally by one or more fabric panels, some with valves, running perpendicular to the direction of flight, separating it into different (pressure) sections. This makes it possible to influence the airflows inside the canopy. The principle is comparable to a bulkhead, e.g. in a tank.

With RAST, the equalizing airflows inside the paraglider canopy can be regulated through defined openings. This applies both during inflation (launch) and during deflation. In a pressure loss situation, for example caused by a canopy disturbance, the relative internal pressure of the CORE section increases, while the BUFFER section absorbs the incoming energy through deformation. Furthermore, RAST can be used as an additional tension layer in addition to the leading and trailing edges, which has a positive effect on flight comfort. Because RAST connects the ribs across the entire profile height, the construction has a stiffening effect, and reinforcements and/or stiffening elements can be reduced or even fully replaced through this particular construction approach.

The idea for the SPHERA was born from the wish of Maurizio Bottegal, designer Alessio Casolla, and the entire development team to consistently rethink a modern 2-liner with Ram Air Section Technology.

On the SPHERA 2 RS, RAST sits further forward in the profile. Exactly where the pitch moment determines flight comfort and performance.

Especially on a high-performance 2-liner, dividing the canopy into two pressure sections brings a decisive advantage. The SPHERA 2 RS stays clear, calm, and predictable, even when gliding fast in turbulent air. It delivers very direct, precise feedback without constantly demanding the pilot’s attention. That leaves more time to focus on your flight.

The RAST band forms an additional vertical tension layer inside the canopy, running perpendicular to the classic rib structure and spanning the entire wing. This structural backbone is unique in paraglider construction and gives the wing control exactly where it matters in active air: in the pitch moment, as a pendulum stabilizer above the pilot, and in the cohesion of the entire canopy.

The difference shows in active air. The canopy pendulums less around the pitch axis. It stays compact, and movements around the lateral axis are not only damped, but translated into calm, usable pitch behavior.

As a result, the SPHERA 2 RS loses less performance through pendulum motion. It pulls cleanly and consistently into rising air masses and holds its performance where less stable canopies begin to struggle.

For you as a pilot, that means: more control, less correcting, and more mental capacity on long flights.

The launch behavior also benefits from the new RAST setup. Adjusted RAST valve openings mean the canopy fills more controlled and more evenly. As a result, the SPHERA 2 RS climbs above the pilot more easily, more clearly, and more predictably, a noticeable advantage on demanding launches and in changing conditions.

RAST really shows its strength in canopy disturbances and in extreme flight behavior. When the front Buffer Section collapses in turbulence, the rear Core Section holds pressure longer and dampens the collapse.

The bulkhead helps prevent a complete deflation of the canopy, even in large accelerated collapses.

The result: less altitude loss, faster reopening, lower cravat tendency, and better brake control.

RAST is therefore the “Silent Backbone” , the backbone of the SPHERA 2 RS. It works in the background, without dominating the flight character. It stabilizes, calms, and reduces pilot load, especially on long flights and in demanding conditions. As a result, the SPHERA 2 RS flies not only powerfully, but also remarkably efficiently, focused, and fatigue-free.