This constellation first appeared in 1603. It was created by the German astronomer Johann Bayer. It is located in the far southern skies northwest of the bright star Archenar in Eridanus, the river. The phoenix is a mythical bird who lived for 500 years. At the end of its life it would build a nest of spices, twigs, and fragrances. The sun would light the nest afire and the bird would perish in flames only to be reborn again to start the cycle over again.