Abstract
The basic properties of highly evolved close binary systems are described. In these systems the first mass exchange between the components is completed and peculiar objects are formed: Wolf–Rayet stars, white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes. The observational characteristics of these systems are in agreement with the modern theory of evolution of close binary systems. Investigation of these systems is very important for astrophysics and fundamental physics. In particular, 20 black-hole candidates of stellar masses have been discovered up to now in highly evolved close binaries. A catalogue of highly evolved close binary stars is described as well as its new electronic version, work on which is in progress at the Sternberg Astronomical Institute.
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