(Greek argos, ‘swift’) In Greek mythology, Jason and the Argonauts sailed the vessel ARGO in search of the Golden Fleece, and along the way had many successful adventures. Jason enlisted 50 of the greatest heroes to serve as crew on the Argonautica, or voyage, including the Gemini twins Castor and Pollux, Hercules, Orpheus the musician and Hylas. ARGO, named after its builder Argus, who also served as crew, is the first ship in history to be given a name. In honor of this, there is an ancient constellation, ARGO NAVIS, which lies in the southern hemisphere, just below the equator. In 1763, the French cartographer Abbe’ Nicolas Louis de Lacaille divided this large constellation into 3 smaller manageable constellations: modern day Carina (keel), Puppis (stern or "poop") and Vela (sail). Historical facts lead us to believe that there is some truth to the ARGO and that this was probably the first important maritime expedition.

To learn more about Argo's history and past voyages, click the button below!