Matt checked on the remaining researchers and saw some value in their proposals, but the rock mining was on his mind the whole time. After seeing what the other researchers had to offer, Matt had a general understanding of their project and was ready to poke holes in their proposals. After finishing with their dreams, Matt patrolled around the ship to see if there were any interesting secrets being revealed.
With the increase to his power, he was able to see something like a preview of the dream happening when he focused on the white lights. He would occasionally send his thoughts and whispers into random crewman to include himself in their happy dreams as a friend, and in their nightmares as a hero. This was part of his long-term plan to make everyone his puppet. He didn't forget to include his followers into the dreams as well.