'Audible screams of delight' from NASA scientists over micrometeorite impacts on the moon witnessed by Artemis 2 astronauts

During their flight, the crew members were tasked with identifying multiple geographic features, photographing the lunar surface and recording their findings for scientists back on Earth. And, with the brightest part of the sun blocked by the disk of the moon, the Artemis 2 astronauts were able to make out flashes from each impact with just their eyes.

Impact flashes are caused by micrometeors hitting the moon, and can help scientists learn about the dynamics of the lunar environment.

"This is absolutely everything we hoped for by integrating science into flight operations," Young said. "Science enables exploration, and exploration enables science."