The Level of Agreement Between Theoretical and Observed Globular Cluster Luminosity Functions

. Luminosity functions from theoretical stellar evolution calculations are compared with observed ones of several galactic globular clusters (M30, M92, M68, NGC6397, M4, M80, NGC6352, NGC1851). Contrary to earlier results of Faulkner & Stetson (1993) and Bolte (1994) we find no significant discrepancy that could indicate the neglect of important physical effects in the models. However, it is confirmed that the subgiant branch is the most sensitive part and shows the largest deviations in the luminosity function comparison, if parameters are unappropriate. We also find that the main sequence is suited less than the Red Giant Branch for the calibration of theoretical luminosity functions. While for individual clusters different changes in the model assumptions might resolve mismatches, there is no systematic trend visible. It rather appears that the quality of the luminosity function in the subgiant part is insufficient and that improved observations of this particular region are necessa..