The discussion highlights the lack of an exact general formula for calculating brightness temperature, noting that Wien's approximation is commonly used but considered too crude. It emphasizes that accurate brightness calculations require knowledge of the material's emissivity, which is an empirical parameter found in reference tables. Participants express the need for more precise methods beyond standard approximations. The conversation underscores the importance of understanding emissivity for accurate thermal measurements. Overall, the search for a more exact formula remains unresolved.