The constellation of Argo Navis is recorded in Greek texts, derived from ancient Egypt around 1000 BC.

[1] As Argo Navis was roughly 28% larger than the next largest constellation, Hydra,[2] it was sub-divided into three sections in 1752 by the French astronomer Nicolas Louis de Lacaille, including Puppis, which he referred to as "Argûs in puppi".

Therefore, Carina has the α, β, and ε, Vela has γ and δ, Puppis has ζ, and so on.

[3] In 1844, John Herschel proposed complete dividing Argo Navis in accordance with Lacaille's divisions.

[4] However, the constellation continued to be used into the 20th century, and officially received a three-letter designation alongside its divisions in 1922.